Liz Nolan's Classic Drive

Since its foundation in 1974, Kilkenny Arts Festival has brought many of the world’s finest musicians, performers, writers and artists to the heart of Ireland’s medieval city each August.

One of the highlights this year must surely be . Come and experience DruidShakespeare, an epic theatrical event which the Guardian has called "exhilarating... extraordinary... a staggering venture"; On Monday, we have 2 x tickets to DruidShakepeare and accommodation for 2 in the beautifully restored 17th century Lyrath Estate Hotel.

DruidShakespeare is a sweeping narrative of family, ambition, war and the making of nations with a rousing parade of characters including one of the playwright's greatest comic creations, Falstaff. The open-air staging in Castle Yard will have a special resonance, as Richard II stayed at Kilkenny Castle while fighting his Irish campaigns.